Rob Oliver becomes European Champion

Solihull Paracanoe star Robert Oliver became European Champion at the weekend, whilst competing in Racice, Czech Republic. Rob took gold in the KL3 200m at the Senior European Paracanoe Sprint Championships. Having placed first in his semi-final on Friday, Rob went on to win the final on Saturday by 0.58 seconds ahead of Tom Kierey of Germany, Mateusz Surwilo from Poland was third.

On winning his first European title, Rob said, "I am absolutely buzzing to have already achieved so much this year, after taking the decision to become a full time athlete last year with the support from UK Sport / National Lottery funding and British Canoeing. To win at the Euros is a great way to start the year and I am really looking forward to the World Championships in Milan".

Rob was a talented footballer up until 2008 when, aged 20, he broke his leg during a match. Later, following no fewer than 17 operations, he was forced to have his leg amputated due to medical negligence. Rob thought his life as a sportsman was over but two years later he climbed into a kayak and was given a new lease of life in Paracanoe. “In 2011 I set myself a goal to be the very best which, to me, means World and Paralympic Champion” said Rob, "I have a great team around me at British Canoeing and at 17 Management and I am very thankful to me generous sponsors; SCC, Blatchford, Overboard and Village Urban Resorts, they all help make everything possible".

Becoming European Champion was only one of Rob's targets this year, as he will also be looking to represent Great Britain at the World Championships taking place in Milan, Italy during August. Then, in 2016, all thoughts will turn to Rio where Paracanoe will make its' debut at the Paralympic Games.

You can find out more about Rob on his website www.robertolivergb.com

Follow us on Twitter @17_Management   @RobertOliverGB

#EuropeanChampion #Paracanoe #WorldChampionships #Paralympics